Elizabeth was fully qualified to be a mother but had to wait.

She was married to Zechariah, the priest, who belonged to a priestly division.  She herself came from the lineage of Aaron.  Both were upright in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commandments and regulations.  She was qualified to be a mother but did not have any children.

When the angel came to Zechariah and told him that Elizabeth was going carry a child, he doubted (Luke 1:11-13).  They had been praying for a long time for a child.  The answer to their prayer came too late, at least that’s what they thought.  Do you think the same way? Have you felt it is too late for your dreams to come true?  Maybe you have been faithful in serving the Lord, praying and desiring to be used by God, but have not received an answer.  Now you are thinking it is too late for that dream to come true.  As children of God we are qualified to do His will and it is never late to serve the Lord.  Our needs and desires will come to pass but we must wait for His timing.

The angel told Zechariah your prayer has been heard (Luke 1:13) and it will come true at the proper time (Luke 1:20b).  Continue to delight in the Lord and God will fulfill the desires of your heart.  Be ready to receive the answers to some of the prayers you prayed years ago.  The angel said, “He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice and he will be great in the sight of the Lord (Luke 1:14,15).”  When we get our answers at God’s timing it will be a joy and delight.  Are we willing to wait for His timing?  In Luke 1:17 we read that their son (John the Baptist) will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah.  Elizabeth and Zechariah had an expectation and prayed for a child, but God wanted to bless them with a prophet.  They were praying for something ordinary, but God wanted to give them something great.  John the Baptist was the greatest man born among women.  Don’t limit God with our expectation because he wants to give us more than we ask or think.  Wait with expectancy for greater things.  “No eyes has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him (1 Cor 2:9).”

As a disciple of Christ (child of God) we are fully qualified to make disciples, to be the mothers of prophets who will point others to Christ like John the Baptist.

(Part 2 – Mothers Day Message)

BTW, Mama is encouraged that the prayers answered at the proper time will be a joy and delight.

Mary was not qualified to be a mother when God asked her to be one. 

Mary, a young Jewish girl was engaged to be married to Joseph who was a carpenter.  In a years time after her wedding she would fully qualify to carry a child.  But while she was getting ready for the wedding, an angel went to Mary and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you (Luke 1:28).”  Seeing her bewildered the angel said to her, ” Don’t be afraid Mary, you have found favor with God (Luke 1:30).  You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.”  Mary found favor to carry Jesus within her.  We were not qualified to carry Jesus either but found favor in the sight of God.  Because of his grace and mercy he chose us.  God’s desire for the Bride of Christ is to carry Jesus the Savior to others.

To her family, her community, and her culture she was not qualified to carry a child.  She was not supposed to have a baby before marriage.  For Mary, obeying the voice of God meant rejection from her own family and community.     She would have to carry the shame and guilt of dishonoring the family for the rest of her life.  She would have to take care and provide for this child by herself.  Despite all this, Mary was willing and obedient.  Can we carry Jesus Christ despite our lacking qualifications,  despite the opposition and rejection we could face?

Others may not understand what God has spoken to you, or the visions and dreams that have been given to you.  They may oppose you, condemn you, or say it cannot be from the Lord.  You may have to do it all alone until the purpose is fully revealed.  It took Jesus 33 years to complete his purpose and even then many did not believe.

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you (Luke 1:35).”  When we wonder, but how can I do this, he says Holy Spirit will come upon us and the power of the Most High will overshadow us.  The power of the Holy Spirit enabled Mary to carry the impossible.  God has given us the Holy Spirit so we can do what he asks.

“Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not expose her to public disgrace (Matthew 1:19).”  Jesus’ righteousness covered our sin, shame, guilt, and fear.  We the Church, “His Bride,” have his Name, his provision, his protection, and his covering.  We are fully qualified because of Jesus’ righteousness.  Mary yielded to his voice and was obedient to his word.

To our family, community and world we may not be qualified to serve the Lord.  We ourselves may think we are not qualified because of the enemy’s reminder of our past, imperfections, inadequacies, and inabilities.  Let us renew our mind with God’s word and remember that our past is covered by his righteousness, our present is empowered by the Holy Spirit and our future is in the hands of the Lord.  Be a spiritual mother that carries the Lord and Savior.  

When God qualifies us in Jesus, we are qualified indeed.

(Part 1 – Mothers Day Message)

While I was working on my previous blog “Do you see what I see?” I heard a message titled “What do you see?” that caused excitement, curiosity, and expectation.

I see that it is okay to tell the Lord that my vision is not clear yet and that He needs to touch me again.  Pastor said, Jesus will not be offended or feel bad for himself that he did not do it at the first attempt.  He knows exactly what he is doing.  His ways are wonderful, his processes are perfect, and he will accomplish what he wants.  My spiritual sight is being restored gradually and my outlook is changing.  God is faithful to give me full sight even if it takes multiple times. 

(Summary of the message by Pastor Alex – April 21, 2012)

“What Do You See?”

 Mark 8:22-26,  The Healing of a Blind Man at Bethsaida is recorded only in the gospel of Mark. Healing was done in stages and it was the only time Jesus spat directly on the man’s eye.

a) He took the man by the hand (cares for us)

b) He spat on his eyes (touches us tangibly)

c) He asked him, do you see anything? (partners with us)

d) He touched him a second time (will not give up on us)

Why did Jesus heal this man in stages?

1. God’s dealings are diverse

2. He deals with us according to our need

3.The duration of healing is different, sometimes instant or gradual

4. Our spiritual vision is often imperfect

5. Be honest with God about our spiritual life

Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes.  Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly (Mark 8:25).

Lot saw the earthly possession but Abraham’s outlook was heavenly (Gen 13:10, Heb 11:13-19)

Joseph ran away from the pleasures (from Pharoh’s wife) of Egypt (Gen 50:20)

Moses’ looked at the position differently and identified with the slaves (Heb 11:23-26)

The spies saw the problems but Joshua and Caleb saw the promise (Numbers 13)

Ephesians 1:18,  I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he as called you.

Holy Spirit is asking, “Do you see what I see?”

We learned last week that the promise land is compared to a spirit filled life, as crossing the Red Sea to baptism and deliverance from Egypt to salvation.

Moses chose 12 leaders from each tribe at the Lord’s command and sent them to explore Canaan, the promise land (Numbers 13).  He gave them specific directions and instructions before they left on their spy mission (Num 13:17-20).

The 12 men returned and gave report to Moses, Aaron, and the whole Israelite community.  In Canaan they saw the abundance of the land, powerful people, large fortified cities, and the descendants of Anak (giants).  They also saw that the land was exceedingly good, flowing with milk and honey (14:7,8), and brought back grapes, pomegranates, and figs for everyone to see. When they compared themselves with the people they saw, they said, “We looked like grasshoppers and the enemy saw us the same way (Num 13:33)”.  Occasionally, I catch myself doing the same thing, looking at my self and the enemy which brings discouragment.  But Joshua and Caleb saw something different because they always relied on God.  “But because my servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it (Numbers 14:24)”.  Caleb saw the promise not the problem.   He saw the Lord’s protection upon them and the enemy with no protection (14:9).  Caleb’s spirit gave him the confidence to go and take possession of the land.  He silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it (Numbers 13:30).”

I am on a spy mission to take hold of the promises that are given to me.  When fears try to cripple, the inability to change frustrates, and thoughts of “what if” overwhelm, I pray.  God who sees and hears gives timely words to stand on.  I must see the way Caleb saw and take my eyes of the enemy and myself.  He exposes the enemy so I can fight with proper weapons, release a “stone of scripture” like David to slay the giant, and walk around with the trumpet of praise like Joshua to bring down the large fortified city walls.

Spy Mission Report

God uses the challenges in our lives to send us on a “promise exploration” mission.  Some of the ways to see and conquer those promises are praying, fasting, praising, and studying the word.  In your spy missions, see the way Caleb saw and take hold of your promises.

Do you see what I see?

To the high priest’s question, ” I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God.”  Jesus replied, “Yes, it is as you say.” (Matthew 26:63)

To the governor’s question, ” Are you the king of the Jews?”  Jesus replied, “Yes, it is as you say.” (Matthew 27:11)

Jesus asked his disciples, who do people say the Son of Man is?  Disciples replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”  Jesus asked his disciples, “But what about you? Who do you say I am?”  Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:13-16)

What do I say about Jesus Christ today?

I say, He is my Lord and God who is in control of everything when some things seems out of control.  He is my Joy who gives strength to go on despite the fear that tries to bring me down.  He is my Peace who turned a sleepless night few days ago (because of worries), into a meaningful time with the Prince of Peace.  He is my Hope when situations seem hopeless.  He is my Best Friend who listens to everything that I say and don’t say (to that which is in my heart).

And I say, He is Christ, the Son of the living God.  

He is Risen, He is Alive and He is Coming Soon!

When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted (Psalms 138:3).

Stouthearted means courageous, stubborn, brave, resolute.  A stalwart: possessing or displaying courage; able to face and deal with danger or fear without flinching; sets a courageous example by leading them safely into and out of enemy-held territory.

My uncle and aunty, servants of God, while visiting us three weeks ago, told me that my passive prayer days are over, especially concerning my children.  They encouraged and instructed me to fast once a week and fight like Deborah (Judges 4) until I see breakthroughs.  After they left, I took time to fast and was led to meditate on Psalms 138.

David says, “When I called, you answered me and made me bold and stouthearted (Psalms 138:3).”  Note that he did not say God gave me, but made me bold and stouthearted.  Like David, I am in the process of being made, being made indicates change.  A shift is taking place inside of me that is not yet visible.  A change in function, in position, in prayer, and in faith has started.  It is becoming part of me, not that I have boldness but I am becoming bold, courageous, resolute, and determined.  This scripture confirms the commision to fight like Deborah through warfare prayer.  God is talking through this Psalm to step into another level in my prayer life.  He is asking to put on the full armor of God, so that I can take my stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:11).  He is transforming and equipping me through His word for what he is asking me to do.  God is making me to be a “stalwart mama,” who courageously fights for her children, going into enemy territory and snatching them out of the enemy’s hand, bringing them to their purpose in God.  God assures in verse 7, though I walk in the midst of trouble, he will preserve my life; he will stretch out his hand against the anger of my foes, with his right hand he will save me.  He not only makes and equips, but also protects from the enemy.  So I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will sing your praise.  I will praise your name for your love and faithfulness (Psalms 138: 1,2).  Through all the circumstances of my life the Lord is fulfilling his purpose for me (Psalms 138:8).

A mile equals 5280 feet or 1760 yards or 1.6 kilo meters.  For an average person, depending on the stride, it takes 2000 – 2500 steps to complete a mile.  Walking a mile daily will improve circulation, build stamina, reduce stress, increase energy levels and keep you healthy.  The pedometer I received as a Christmas gift revealed the truth about my daily walk.  I found out that I only take around 3000 steps a day and around 6000 steps on the days I exercise.  It is less than the recommended 10,000 steps a day for a healthy lifestyle (http://www.thewalkingsite.com/) so my goal is to do 50,000 steps a week.  Hmmm?!?  I have an idea!  Why don’t you walk a mile with me and …………

Wait!  Don’t start yet, let me “google” the benefits of walking two miles.  

Jesus says, ” if someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles” (Matthew 5:41).  

It’s easy to say go another mile, when the first mile is already by force, obligation; it’s definitely hard to do more.  But, my Doctor’s Prescription to go extra mile has eternal benefits.  Adding 10 minutes to my prayer time, or 30 minutes to study the scriptures will strengthen my relationship with God.  Adding a 5lb weight of service will mold and shape me like Jesus (“The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master” Matthew 10:24.  “Yet Jesus washed the disciples’ feet” John 13:12).  Adding a stretch in my giving will firm up my faith muscles (“Give, and it will be given to you.  A good measure, press down, shaken together, and running over” Luke 6:38).  Adding a mile of forgiveness will mend those broken relationships and I will be forgiven (“forgive us as we forgive others” Matthew 6:12).  And the list goes on……

Basically, when I go the second mile, I will start losing the unwanted weight of sinful habits, bitterness, jealousy, hatred, busyness, complacency….and I will start looking like Jesus.  My goal is to be like Jesus.

Wow! Look at the time.  You have been waiting long enough.  Let’s step into health, spiritually and physically.  You google the WORD to find more spiritual benefits of going the extra mile.  

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well ( 3 John 1:2).

Dream 2 – Monday, March 22: This bride was all dressed up in a wedding saree waiting at the entrance (that looked like the front of a hotel) and a car was waiting at the curb.  She was sitting on a bench and looked almost lifeless. Her mother and sister were standing beside her.  I asked them why they were not taking her to the car since they got her all dressed up and ready.  Together the three of us carried the bride to the back seat of the car.

An unprepared bride is a worn out bride (Matthew 25:1-13)

In the parable of the Ten Virgins, the foolish 5 were ready and had their lamps but did not take extra oil with them.  They only had whatever the lamp was able to hold.  The bridegroom took longer than expected.  At the midnight call to meet him they woke up and trimmed their lamps but were running low on oil.  The foolish ones said to the wise, “Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.”

Are we running out of oil because we are not prepared and the bridegroom is taking too long to come?   Are we like the bride who is dressed and ready but has no life, no joy, no strength to walk into her destiny?   Are we worn out, burnt out because we are relying on self, family and others instead of depending on the Holy Spirit?  Being born into a Christian family, following tradition or going to church is like arranged marriage (saree representing culture of arranged marriage).  The Bride of Christ is the one who has a vibrant personal relationship with Jesus.  Oil represents the Holy Spirit that gives us the power to keep our lamp lit.

Dear Bride of Christ, let us pray for a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit to fill us so we will be prepared and have the power to walk into our destiny.